Mikkelsen looking ahead to Tour de Corse challenge

Andreas Mikkelsen is looking forward to the challenge of the Corsica asphalt at the 2016 Tour de Corse – Rallye de France after his third-place finish last year.

Mikkelsen, who is 59 points behind his Volkswagen team-mate Sébastien Ogier in the Drivers’ Standings, must finish eighth or better or win the Power Stage if the Norwegian is to keep his World Rally Championship dreams alive.

Even better, a win for Mikkelsen could take the championship battle to Catalunya in two weeks’ time.

Mikkelsen said “I am looking forward to the Rally France, because a unique asphalt rally awaits us on Corsica. The special stages, which are few in number but very long, are full of corners and technically demanding.

“Previous races there have shown that you need to look after your tyres and brakes, and to be very fit. If you simply floor it without thinking, you will be punished at this rally. In my opinion, the first special stage will be key, as you must immediately find your rhythm for the entire rally.”

Mikkelsen added about the fact that he prefers a variation of stages in a WRC rally, but admits he is in top form to compete at the Tour de Corse.

“Although I probably prefer a more varied rally, with a mix of short and long stages, my co-driver Anders and I are ready and in top form ahead of this challenge.

“Although the championship is still up for grabs, I am actually focusing more on the men behind us – Paddon, Neuville and Jari-Matti. I am out to extend my advantage over these guys with a podium result.”